Tuesday, May 4, 2010

To get a doula or not the second time around?

Having continuous support during labor makes the process go faster. I’ve been wavering on whether or not to invest in a doula for the second time around. Though I admit that having someone there I know is on my side is a huge benefit, even if I have a better idea of what to expect compared to the first time.

A friend of mine says that at her hospital (in North Carolina) they have volunteer doulas available on-call at the hospital, available to everyone. My concern would be not getting to know the doula ahead of time, making it a matter of chance just like a nurse or a doctor. But at least it’s an interested and hopefully caring party available to all, willing to be at the mother’s side for as long as she needs. I do think that should be available to all.

Any thoughts – is a doula worth the investment the second time around, especially if I plan to go for pain relief (epidural) on the early side?

1 comment:

Lainey Wright said...

We had a student doula (free) from a local midwifery school who was incredibly helpful. We met her beforehand & felt really comfortable with her. Perhaps there is something like that in your area?